The GBA Chapter in Puerto Rico will concentrate its efforts on three fundamental axes: outreach and community collaboration through monthly events, which will be held on the last Thursday of each month at Piloto 151, a professional certification program in various topics related to blockchain and support for specific pilot projects such a Public-Private-Partnership incubator. The P3 incubator will be structured so that Sbiz can apply for federal government grants to promote research and opportunities with blockchain technology.

The GBA is composed of individuals and organizations that seek to promote solutions at the governmental level through blockchain technology. This organization is committed to supporting governments, organizations and institutions to understand, implement and benefit from blockchain-related technologies by making available resources, seminars, workshops and educational programs, and monthly meetings by industry. “Through the GBA, we will be able to connect innovative technology firms in Puerto Rico with international mentoring in this space,” said Giancarlo Gonzalez, co-founder of the GBA chapter in Puerto Rico.

The secretary of Economic Development in Puerto Rico, Manuel Laboy Rivera, met with the GBA Chapter founders and expressed that “part of the public policy of the agency is to support the private sector that promotes new technologies and innovative industries in Puerto Rico thus presenting a solid and globalized market. In this way, we continue to diversify our economic model, while positioning the island as a vanguard reference in the American jurisdiction and in the Caribbean.”

Elected officials, legislators, administrators, corporate executives, directors, managers, educators, and students are exploring this technology. This sudden explosion of interest creates both challenges and opportunities. There is unlimited potential for new and innovative ideas, products, services, and businesses. However, rapid growth can result in chaos, dislocation, fear, uncertainty and doubt. This is where the GBA can offer solutions. “By providing a framework and communications platform, leaders in this space can connect with others in the same domain or complimentary Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). If you are a leader, solution seeker or want to improve your capabilities, let us know. We are here to facilitate the growth and success of the people and organizations in this ecosystem” said Gerard Dache, President of the Government Blockchain Association.

The blockchain is a secure, shared, decentralized database that has the potential to transform the way in which governments interact with their constituents. “The possibility of streamlining processes through automation and efficiency is one of the benefits of the blockchain, both for governments and for companies,” added Laboy.

The first meeting of the Chapter of Puerto Rico will be held on Thursday, January 25, 2018, at 7pm at Piloto 151. To see the full agenda you can access the meetup link.